Lake Of Sins: Betrayed: Lake Of Sins, #4

By L. S. O'Dea

War is coming to the forests of the Lake of Sins.

Hugh has to figure out how to win this war when there are dangers everywhere—the River-Men, the Protective Services, the Brush-Men, Cold Creepers (just to name a few). Plus, he's going to have to break his word to Trinity or Meesus, maybe both, and that'll go over about as well as a hungry Tracker in a kindergarten class.

Trinity is tired of Hugh not including her in his war sessions. She's an asset to the Allied Classes and he needs to realize that, but before she confronts him she must choose between her attraction to Hugh and her feelings for Jethro. Hopefully, she can do that before hurting either of them and before her big heart gets her in trouble as Mirra predicted.

Jethro is changing. He's now travelling with the Protective Services and it's like he was born to live in the forest—to hunt, to chase, to kill. As the wild in his blood grows stronger, he's torn between what he was raised to believe and his growing desire for Trinity. After each battle, he wants to mate and the person he wants to mate with is Trinity. When his blood is roaring through his body, it doesn't matter that she isn't an Almighty. It doesn't matter that interclass relations are wrong. All that matters is that he possess her.

As the hunt for the Allied Classes heats up, battles between the Protective Services and the forest predators spiral out of control, pushing Jethro to the edge of his humanity.

 

More battles and more betrayals in book four of the dystopian, genetic engineering fantasy series.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: L. S. O'Dea
• Release date: Jul 3, 2017
• ISBN: 9781942706090

L. S. O'Dea

L. S. O’Dea sees things a bit differently than most people. This is probably a bi-product of being the youngest of seven children in a time when TV was only worth watching in the evenings or Saturday mornings and there were no computers. Back then, kids had to amuse themselves and being five years younger than her closest sibling she was often the unwilling entertainment.One day, before she started kindergarten, she really wanted to learn how to spell her name (Linda Sue). Her mother was busy so her brothers were told to help their baby sister. When they were done, she raced into the kitchen to show her mother what she’d learned. She stood tall and recited the letters of her name. L-E-M-O-N H-E-A-D.To this day, she still receives a box of Lemonhead candy every year for Christmas.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1:  CONGUISE

CONGUISE STARED OUT THE window at the rising sun.  It was going to be a beautiful day, crisp and sunny.  Unfortunately, he’d spend most of it in the basement.  He could hold off another day or so, but sunny or rainy this task was never pleasant, so he might as well get it done and he would.  Right after breakfast. 

He added another slice of toast to the large tray of bread and fruit on the counter and picked up his plate of toast and sausage, carrying it to the table.  He refilled his coffee and sat.  There were two papers waiting for him today.  It was early for the rebel’s propaganda.  Usually, Afar only brought that paper on Saturdays.  His hand skimmed over the rebel’s rag.  No.  He’d read the official paper first, like always.  He scanned the news while he ate.  There wasn’t anything unusual or interesting in the pages.  His eyes darted to the other paper.  If there was nothing interesting to report, why were the rebels early with their lies?  He folded the paper and put it aside, picking up the second smaller one. 

There was nothing but more stories about the freeing of the Guards and Servants from the shelters.  It seemed the rebels had nothing new to report either.  He turned a page and his hands shook as his gaze landed on a photo of Hugh and that creature they called Trinity.  Hugh was bandaging her arm.  Apparently, she’d been injured while helping to steal the Guards from the shelter.  Hugh gazed at this female as if...as if he were infatuated with her.  The professor’s hands fisted, wrinkling the paper.  It was that creature’s fault Viola was dead.  Viola had loved Hugh and he was betraying her again, defiling the memory of her love with that thing.  He pushed his plate aside.  One day, he’d kill Hugh.  All he had to do was decide how and the more brutal the better.

Afar stepped into the kitchen from the pantry, closing the door behind him.

Conguise took a deep breath as he straightened the rebel’s paper and set it aside.  Is everything ready? 

Yes, sir.  There are four Guards in the back room.

Get two more.  We may need them.  He walked to the counter. 

Of course, sir.  Afar collected the abandoned breakfast dishes.

Conguise added a glass of water and a large knife to the tray of bread and fruit.  His reflection caught in the spotless blade.  He’d aged a lot.  Sorrow did that to a man.  He opened the pantry door, grabbed the tray and headed down the stairs.  Dread filled his stomach, churning with each step.  This wasn’t a task he enjoyed.  He wasn’t a cruel man, but he’d never again prepare or eat any food without knowing firsthand the source of the meat. 

The first time he’d done this he’d had no idea what to expect.  His plan and execution had been flawed and the results had been horrible.  He stepped off the final stair, took a deep breath, plastered a smile on his face and entered the concrete room.  He’d been right about leaving the room bare.  It was cold and desolate, but easier to clean than tile or wood.

Good morning, Professor.  The young, male Producer was lying on the cot in the cage.  He scratched his chest, his shirt stained with dirt and sweat, as he stood and walked to the table and chair.  Whatever you have smells good.  I’m starving.

The cage was filthy, clothes and bedding littering the floor.  This male was slovenly and his habits were unclean.  Yes, I’ve brought homemade bread—the brown kind you like.  I even toasted a few slices.

Great.  The male locked his feet in the restraints attached to the floor by the chair and then snapped another shackle around one of his hands.  Can I leave the other off today?  He held up his free hand which was slightly swollen.  I’ve injured my wrist.

You know the rules.  The professor placed the tray on the table outside of the cage and retrieved the key from the wall across from the cell.

Okay.  The Producer’s tone was sullen as he snapped the other lock around his wrist.  Ouch.

I’ll take a look at your injury after breakfast.  Conguise opened the door.  It was best to keep up the chatter, no matter how inane.  It doesn’t look too bad.  A cold compress should make you feel as good as new.  He picked up the tray and carried it into the cage, placing it in front of the Producer.

Looks good.  The Producer lifted his hand toward the bread.

Rules.  The professor touched the male’s shoulder.

Okay.  He dropped his hand and closed his eyes, tipping back his head. 

How did you hurt yourself?  Conguise picked up the knife. 

I was trying to stand on my hands.  The Producer’s face flushed a bit.

Whatever for?  He stroked the male’s hair.  He was always surprised at how soft it was.  It reminded him of brushing Viola’s hair when she’d been a little girl. 

I was bored.  Can I eat now? asked the Producer, eyes still closed.

Not yet.  His voice was calm.  That was important.  These creatures could sense dread and unease.  He raised the knife and in one smooth stroke slashed the Producer’s throat.

The male stiffed for one moment, his eyes opening and meeting Conguise’s.  Confusion and surprise filled the male’s visage as he tried to stand, but the restraints restricted his movements.  Conguise stepped back as the Producer grasped his neck, pushing the chair and table as he stumbled.  The professor looked away from the betrayal in the creature’s brown eyes and focused on the blood pouring onto the floor.  There was always so much blood.  He needed to figure out a way to capture it.  It’d be good fertilizer and some could be saved for blood sausage—cooked with peppers and onions would be delicious.

A few minutes later there was a thud as the Producer hit the table and fell to the floor.  Conguise stepped out of the cage as six Guards moved down the hallway from the backroom.  They always knew exactly when to arrive.  He wasn’t sure if it were the sound or the smell, but he was grateful.  He didn’t like to be alone down here as the body twitched its final fight.  He strode to the room where the Guards had been.  They’d follow in a few minutes with the carcass. 

By the time the Guards carried the Producer into the room and hooked him on the hoist, the professor was ready.  He had his knives, saw and spreader lined up on the table.  The Servants cleaned and set up the room after each butchering, but he always sharpened his knives and double checked everything. 

He was a big one, said a Guard. 

Conguise placed his hand over the Producer’s eyes, closing them.  They reminded him too much of Viola’s on the cart, glassy and unseeing.  Tell Afar to get another one right away.  Have him get a large one, but make sure it’s obedient.  I won’t have much time with this next one.  He was in charge of the menu for Jason’s granddaughter’s college graduation in a few months.

CHAPTER 2:  JETHRO

IT’D BEEN WEEKS AND there was still no sign of the Producers.  Jethro was glad.  He liked the thought of young Producers running free through the forest.  He inhaled deeply, savoring the scents of the forest—rabbit, squirrel, earth.  He’d missed this.  He didn’t ever want to go back to living in the suburbs and managing the Producer encampments.  He should flee the Protective Services and live out here.  He sniffed again, half-hoping to catch a whiff of Trinity.  He’d caught her scent when they’d first set out, following the Producers’ trail away from the encampment.  No one else even noticed it, but he’d recognize her scent anywhere.  It’d accompanied her into his dreams every night since he’d seen her in his basement.

As soon as possible, the Producers had moved from the brush to the clearer sections of the forest, thus leaving no trail of broken branches and smashed bushes.  The Guards had resorted to following the scent but that hadn’t taken them far.  The smell of Producer had been all over the forest and then it’d vanished, replaced by pine and herb.  He had no idea what Trinity had used to cover their odor and he wasn’t going to try and figure it out.  Conguise and Jason expected him to help and he was, but he didn’t have to like it.  He didn’t have to like Captain Calvin Folgrant either.

The captain was arrogant without cause.  If he were the best the Almightys had to offer, Hugh and the others would never get caught.  Cal had spent most of this morning droning on about how important it was to be quiet in the forest, especially when hunting.  It was hard to keep a straight face when he’d catch the disgusted looks the Guards shared with each other.  There was no way anything didn’t know about their approach with Cal’s constant chattering, but finally the captain had fallen silent.

This way, said Brick, one of the Guards.  He had his head tipped back, sniffing the air.  Producer, I’m sure.

Jethro’s nose twitched.  Sure enough.  It was Producer.  Cal’s entire army followed Brick through the forest.  He trailed a little behind the Guards, not wanting to be in the lead and give any indication that his sense of smell was better than it should be.  He also didn’t want to be in the back because that was where Cal and the other Almightys were and he didn’t get along with them.  They were condescending toward him and the Guards.  Only the threat of being sent back to the Producer encampment had kept him from punching the sneers off their faces more times than he could count.

As they continued following the faint odor of Producer, the morning turned into late afternoon.  Some of the Guards were grumbling but he didn’t care.  The longer it took to catch the Producers, the longer he got to enjoy the forest and since Cal had insisted on bringing his entire troop, they weren’t going to capture anything.  Even quiet, fifty Guards made noise and gave off scent.  He hadn’t seen so much as a squirrel in their path. 

The ripple of the command to stop filtered through the troops.  He leaned back against a tree, enjoying the sun on his face.  This was typical of Cal’s astute leadership.  They had even less of a chance of catching anything when they weren’t moving.

The Guards parted as Cal and his second approached. 

Jethro, take four Guards and continue on.  If you find something report back, said Cal.

He pushed off from the tree.  Yes, sir.  So, Cal wasn’t stupid enough to keep hunting with an entire troop of Guards.  That was a surprise. 

Take Indy, Brick and those two.  Cal pointed to two other Guards and then faced Jethro again, his lips twitching in amusement.  I expect results.  His eyes darted to his second.  Or Jason and Conguise do.  I don’t expect anything from you.

Yes, sir.  He kept his face impassive as he turned and headed into the forest. 

Cal had purposely picked the worst Guards in the group.  Brick was as dumb as his name.  He was big and muscular but stupid and the other two were so young that they should be home playing with toys not running around in the forest.  Indy was another story.  The Guard was about his age, had dark brown hair, kept his beard neatly trimmed and had brown eyes that sparkled with humor and intelligence which was Indy’s main problem.  He was smart and found amusement in almost every situation, causing him to take nothing seriously.

They made their way through the woods in silence, none of them except the two, young Guards happy about this assignment.  Jethro knew it was a waste of time.  Whatever Producers had been in the area were long gone, warned by the approaching troop of Guards.  This was sabotage on Cal’s part.  When they went back into town in a few weeks, the captain could report to Jason and Conguise that Jethro had been given an opportunity to capture Producers but had failed.

Smell that, said Brick, grinning.  We found the scent again.

Yeah.  Indy turned toward Jethro.  Producer.  A lot of scent but it’s old.

He nodded.  He’d realized that over ten minutes ago. 

I don’t think there’ve been any Producers around here in weeks, said Indy.

Are you sure?  He was positive.

Yeah.  The first scent we’d caught had been fresher.  We must’ve lost it somewhere and picked up this trail.

Hmm.  He wasn’t sure what else to say, since he agreed.  He wanted to tip back his head and inhale deeply, catch all the scents in the air, but he didn’t dare. 

We should report this to the captain, said Indy.

Not yet.  Let’s follow the trail a little longer to see where it leads.  He was in no hurry to return to the others.

It’s not going to lead to any Producers, grumbled Indy.

Humor me or do you want to go back and listen to Cal gloat?

Indy eyes widened and a smile spread across his face.  I thought all you Almightys were best friends.

Hardly.  He headed into the brush. 

I’d keep that quiet, if I were you.  Indy jogged to catch up with him.  Some of these idiots are loyal to Captain Cal.

Good to know.  He didn’t care what Cal thought of him, but the man was going to report on his progress which would eventually decide his fate.  He didn’t want to lead his own troops against Jackson, Hugh and Trinity, but he also didn’t want to run the Producer encampments.  Eventually, he’d have to send Producers to the Warehouse District and he wasn’t ready for that.  He needed time to figure out how to get out of both of these jobs and still keep his home.

His nose twitched.  Guard.  He paused, holding up his fisted hand to signal the others to stop.  This scent was fresh.  The Guards were close.  The urge to track them down, to hunt, was strong but he didn’t want to catch them.  If he were alone, he’d stalk them through the forest for the challenge, but he wasn’t alone.  If he caught them, he’d have to turn them over to Cal.  Ah, it’s getting dark.  We should go back.  Let Cal gloat and be done with it.

You just said...  Indy stared at him like he was crazy. 

Come on.  He turned around.  He could live with the Guard thinking he was an idiot.

Why did you stop?  Indy looked back the way they’d been heading. 

Because I decided it was time to return.  He kept marching forward.  Now, come on.

Brick and the others followed him.

I’ll catch up.  Indy darted off in the direction they’d been traveling.

Wait here, he ordered the three Guards as he ran after Indy.  The damn Guard would catch the scent soon.  He skidded to a halt. 

Indy stood with his finger on his lips to signal silence.  The Guard pointed through the vegetation at a clearing.  It was an abandoned camp.  The old scent of Producer, Servant, Guard and Grunt assailed his nose.  He wanted to punch Indy in his smiling mouth.  This camp had to have been used by the Allied Classes.  Only the AC would be this large, diverse and deep in the forest. 

Indy nudged him and pointed to the far side of the camp.  Three Guards sat in a circle.  One was putting a rabbit on a spit over a newly started fire.  The other two were taking food out of their backpacks.

There was no way they’d capture these three, especially since he wasn’t going to be very helpful.  Physical work wasn’t expected of him.  He was an Almighty.  He signaled for Indy to circle around to the other side, but the Guard shook his head, giving him a disgusted look.  Indy tapped his nose, pointed at the AC Guards and held his fisted hand up in the signal to wait.  Dread filled his chest.  Even Brick was smart enough to come running at the scent of fire and roasting rabbit. 

He needed to do something fast or they were going to catch these Guards.  We...  He caught Indy’s wrist, stopping the Guard from covering his mouth.

Indy’s eyes widened for a second as he grabbed Jethro’s arm with his other hand and headed away from the camp.  Jethro walked as loudly as he could, earning him more disgusted looks from Indy, but his efforts were wasted because the AC Guards didn’t move.  He would’ve heard them if they had.

Indy stopped when they were several yards away from the camp.  He dropped his hold on Jethro’s arm and studied him.  How’d you block me?

It wasn’t hard.  You were slow.  He didn’t shout but he wasn’t quiet either.

Shhh.  Indy glanced around and the tension around his eyes eased as Brick and the other Guards crept up to them.  Boys, we found some Guards.  He turned to Jethro.  Wait here.  It’ll only take a minute. 

No.  I’m coming with you.  He’d use the opportunity to make as much noise as the average Almighty did when trying to be quiet, which was a lot.

I’d rather you didn’t, said Indy.

Too bad.  I’m in charge.  He almost cringed at the words.  He sounded like Cal and every other asshole Almighty in the troop.

Indy rolled his eyes, but didn’t say a word as he led the way back to the camp and ordered the others to surround the area.  Jethro had stomped and hit every dried twig and pile of dead leaves he could, but the AC Guards were chatting and focused on their meal.  They were fools. 

Jethro held his breath as one of them looked up and sniffed, but the AC Guards were upwind from them.  There was nothing else he could do.  His four Guards were too close now.  If he made a noise, his Guards might get hurt.  He couldn’t do that.  He wasn’t a traitor. 

In a coordinated action his Guards stepped out of the brush.  The AC Guards scrambled, but it was too late.  His Guards were trained in combat and had the element of surprise.  In less than ten minutes, the three AC Guards were tied up in the center of the old camp.

Indy jogged over to him, a huge grin on his face.  Captain Cal isn’t going to like this.

He didn’t either.  Perhaps he could arrange to set them free on the way back to the others, maybe not all three of them, but at least one.  Ah, we need to take them back—

Captain Cal will want to see this camp.  Indy gave him another disgusted look.  We should be able to figure out which direction the AC headed from here. 

Yeah, right.  Another thing he didn’t want.  Go back and get the captain.

Indy turned to the youngest Guard.  Speck, you need—

No.  His voice was low and commanding.  He needed Indy gone not one of the other idiots.  I said you should go.

Indy gave him a puzzled look.  I thought we could start interrogating—

The captain will want to do that.  Plus, you should get the credit for this.  He slapped Indy on the back.  You were the one who wanted to keep going.

Thanks.  Indy gave him a suspicious look. 

I’m not Cal.  I believe in acknowledging good work, no matter who does it.

I’ve never known an Almighty like you.  Indy sent him another suspicious look before jogging into the forest.

Brick, you and the others watch these guys.  He turned and headed into the forest.

Sir, called out Brick.  You shouldn’t go out there alone.

He didn’t need this right now.  He needed to hide any traces of the Allied Classes’ trail he could.  I won’t go far, but I have to take a shit.

Oh.  Brick chuckled.  First capture can do that to a guy.

He slipped into the brush and headed a few yards out.  He had to be far enough away that his Guards wouldn’t hear him.  He raced through the forest, his feet silent in the grasses.  He inhaled deeply but there were no scents, nothing but pine and herb.  It didn’t make sense.  If the odors had dissipated naturally, there wouldn’t have been the faint scent of Producer, Guard, Servant and Grunt all over the abandoned camp.  He stopped.  There were some broken leaves and branches.  It wasn’t much but it was a sign.  He followed the path for a little way and then snapped some twigs and tore some leaves.  The sap would be stronger on the fresh breaks.  A smart Guard would wonder why some of the scent was fresher, but this army didn’t have too many smart Guards.  He cringed.  That wasn’t fair.  Most of them weren’t dumb; they just weren’t used to the forest. 

He continued to circle the camp, doing his best to hide any paths.  Lucky for him, the AC had done a good job of concealing their trail.  The sound of the approaching army drifted to him on the wind.  It was time to go back.  He’d done what he could to protect Jackson and the others.  Unfortunately, there wasn’t much he could do for the three Guards they’d captured, but it wasn’t all bad.  Sure, the Guards would be questioned and taken into custody but he’d have a favorable report given to Conguise and Jason.  He wouldn’t have to go back to the Producer Camps yet and that gave him more time to figure out a way out of this mess.  The only worry was if the prisoners talked.  Hopefully, Hugh’s Guards were more loyal than that.

CHAPTER 3:  JETHRO

JETHRO HAD A HARD TIME not grinning as Cal wandered around the old camp.  The captain was not happy.  The discovery of the abandoned AC camp was a coup and Cal was going to have to report that Jethro had been the one to find it.

All three prisoners were kneeling in the center of camp with hands tied behind their backs.  They were adults, probably around thirty years old.  He was reasonably sure by their grim faces that they weren’t going to reveal any information about the AC, at least not easily.

Cal stopped in front of the prisoners.  Where’s the location of your new camp?

Don’t know what camp you’re talking about, said one of the Guards.

Cal slapped him across the face.  The Guard spit the blood from his mouth but other than that didn’t make a sound. 

What do they call you?  Cal motioned and Brick yanked the Guard to his feet.

Ranger, said the Guard. 

Ranger, if you don’t know anything about the insurgent’s camp, explain what you’re doing here.

Me and my boys were hunting and we found this place.

Alone?  Let me see your papers.  Cal’s voice was smug.  Everyone knew what happened to strays.

We don’t have none, sir.  Ranger’s brown eyes were brittle.  Our dear master passed away a while ago.  Maybe, we could join your group.  He glanced at his companions.  We know this forest and we could use steady food.

Invite spies into my army?  Cal laughed. 

Excuse me, Captain.  May I speak with you?  Indy tipped his head toward the forest.

Cal let out a disgusted sigh but followed the Guard away from the prisoners and closer to where Jethro stood. 

When they were far enough away that the AC Guards wouldn’t overhear, Indy said, Let them join us.  When they sneak away, we’ll follow them to their new camp—Indy glanced at the prisoners—and if we’re wrong about them, we have a few more Guards.

Nonsense, said Cal.  We’re not wrong and I don’t allow traitors in my ranks.  He strode back to the prisoners.  Hold him tight. 

Brick tightened his grip on Ranger’s arms and Cal punched the prisoner in the stomach, again and again. 

Indy wandered over to Jethro and leaned against a tree.  Torture doesn’t work, but Captain Cal never learns that lesson.

Jethro shrugged.  He didn’t like seeing the Guard beaten for no reason, but it probably wasn’t the worst beating he’d received.  None of the three looked like they’d had easy lives.  They were all thin and had scars on their faces and hands.

This is what we do to liars, said Cal as he hit Ranger one more time and then lowered his arms.  Tell me where you moved your camp.

I told you.  We don’t know nothing about a camp, said Ranger.

Cal motioned two other Guards over by the prisoners.  Bring them and follow me. 

The Guards yanked the other prisoners to their feet and dragged them over to Cal who stood at the edge of the camp near an old log.

Him.  Cal pointed to one of the prisoners.  Bend him over the log.

Cal’s Guard glanced at the captain in confusion but forced the prisoner to kneel, the top half of his body resting on the log. 

Ranger, you have one more chance to answer my question.  Cal pulled his sword from his sheath.

Ranger’s eyes stared at the blade as it glistened in the dying sun, and then his gaze moved to his friend.  The Guard on his knees trembled as he glanced up at Ranger and shook his head. 

Ranger swallowed visibly and said, Don’t do this.  I swear.  We don’t know nothing about a camp.

He won’t actually do it, will he?  Jethro asked Indy.  Beating the Guards was one thing, but killing them served no purpose.  Dead Guards couldn’t talk and given time one of these three might tell what he knew for more food or freedom, even Cal had to understand that.  Of course, he’d have to figure out a way to free them before that happened.

Indy shook his head.  No.  It’s a scare tactic...

Cal’s blade flew through the air, severing the head of the kneeling Guard.  Silence fell over the camp, not even the birds chirped.  Indy’s knees buckled and he staggered backward away from the tree.  The air caught in Jethro’s lungs as his gaze locked on the blood as it spurted from the torso into the air, splashing onto the ground.  The body twitched and then stilled, but the blood still came.  The geyser slowed and finally stopped, leaving a small black river of life to dirt.

Cal wiped his blade on the back of the beheaded Guard before turning to face the two remaining prisoners.  Ranger’s face was pale and his eyes were locked on his dead friend. 

Next.  Cal pointed to the Guard next to Ranger.

No, don’t do this.  Please.  The prisoner bucked and kicked, fighting to stay away from the log as Cal’s Guard dragged him forward.

Someone help him.  Cal directed another Guard to assist.  Make him kneel.

Stop!  Enough!  Jethro forced his eyes away from the decapitated Guard as he strode across the camp to Cal.  Dead Guards are no use to us.

Get back, said Cal. 

The Supreme Almighty isn’t going to be happy about this.  He had to convince Cal that this wasn’t the way. 

I said make him kneel, said Cal.

Another Guard came forward and the three forced the prisoner to his knees.

Don’t do this, Captain.  We need them to talk but not this way.  Guards are used to punishment.  Show them kindness.  They’ll talk.  He was rambling, but he didn’t know what else to do.

Where did you move the camp?  Cal stared at Ranger.

Ranger’s eyes met his companion’s. 

Please, don’t do this, begged the Guard who was on his knees.

Cal bent, peering into the Guard’s face.  I won’t, if you tell me about your new camp.

The prisoner shook his head.  I can’t.  I swear, we don’t know.

Liar.  Cal straightened and raised his sword. 

This wasn’t going to happen.  Not again.  Jethro lunged, hitting Cal in the chest and knocking the sword from his hands.  They fell to the ground, dirt flying in the air.  He wanted to plant his fist in Cal’s face, something he’d yearned to do from the moment they’d met, but he refrained.  Instead, he pushed his forearm against Cal’s throat.

There’s no need to kill anyone else.  He put more weight onto his arm.  Do you hear me?

Hands pulled at his shoulders, but he wrapped his other arm around Cal keeping the captain tight against him.  Call them off.  He gave a quick, hard push to the captain’s larynx.  The captain nodded the best he could and Jethro loosened his hold a little so Cal could speak.

Back off, said Cal, his voice raspy.

The hands at Jethro’s back disappeared.  He continued to stare into Cal’s blue eyes, his weight pressed against the other man’s throat.  Do we have a deal?

Cal nodded, his eyes hard with hatred.  Jethro stood and extended his hand to Cal, but the other Almighty ignored him and scrambled to his feet. 

Seize him, gasped Cal, his voice still weak. 

He felt the Guards moving toward him before he saw them.  It was as if the very air surrounding him became a threat.  He spun around swinging and connected with flesh.  Fists pummeled his face and stomach, but the pain barely registered.  He lowered his head and rammed into the closest body, lifting the Guard into the air and tossing him over his shoulder.  Something slammed into his side, knocking him to the ground.  He pushed himself to his knees, hitting anything he could reach, but more bodies collided into his, knocking him back to the ground and smothering him with their weight.  He bucked trying to dislodge his opponents, but there were too many and within minutes he was trapped under a pile of Guards.  The weight shifted and they rolled him over, tying his hands behind his back.

Bring him here.  Cal’s voice rang with triumph.

He growled as the Guards lifted him to his feet and dragged him to Cal.  The captain was going to pay for this, maybe not now, but one day.

You dare assault your commanding officer.  Cal’s face was mottled with rage.  You are finished.  Done!  You won’t even have your Producer Camps to fall back on if I have my way.

He snarled at the other Almighty as he welcomed the rage that flowed through his veins.  This weak, sniveling coward was threatening him.  Him!  He didn’t need his hands to tear Cal’s limbs from his body.  He’d use his teeth.  He lurched forward, pulling the Guards several feet as he slammed his head into Cal’s gut and knocked the other Almighty to the ground.  He threw himself forward, prepared to finish his attack, but the Guards regained control, dragging him backward.  He roared, his blood screaming for him to kill his enemy.

Cal jumped to his feet, his face crimson with rage.  He grabbed his sword and strode toward Jethro.  The Guards tightened their hold as Cal rested his weapon against Jethro’s chest.  Make sure he has a front row seat.  He jabbed Jethro slightly and walked over to the prisoners.  The second AC Guard was sitting by the log instead of laying over it.

No, please.  We don’t know nothing about any camp.  I swear, pleaded the prisoner as Cal’s Guards positioned him over the log.

Jethro took a deep breath, calming his rage to an icy storm of hatred.  These words were going to kill him.  Cal, I’m sorry.  Don’t do this.  He wasn’t sorry but he’d beg for the Guards’ lives.  If you stop, I’ll make sure Conguise and Jason pull me from this mission.  It was a weak promise.  After attacking his commanding officer his days as a temporary soldier were over.  From the look Cal shot him, the other Almighty realized it too.

This is what we do to traitors.  Cal raised his sword. 

There was a swish and a thud.  Ranger’s knees buckled and the Guards had to hold him up.

Jethro’s eyes never left Cal as Ranger was put into position and beheaded.  Cal would pay for this.  The Guards still held him tight.  If they’d only loosen their hold for a moment, he’d kill Cal with his arms tied behind his back. 

CHAPTER 4:  HUGH

HUGH STOOD NEAR HIS tent, listening to Jackson and trying not to look for Trinity.  Earlier, he’d wandered past the training grounds but she hadn’t been there.  A young, female House Servant had been taking the recruits through their drills. 

Food is scarce, said Jackson.  The forest has been over hunted.

I sent Tim to talk to Ray.  He came back late last night but he was exhausted.  I told him to get some sleep and we’d discuss Ray’s answer today.  He strolled toward the mess tent.  He wasn’t hungry but maybe Trinity was in there.  He could ask her about training.  He picked up his pace.  That was a legitimate reason to talk to her.  He needed to find out why someone else was instructing the troops.

What are we going to use to pay him?  Jackson trailed after him.  Ray’s not going to feed our army as a favor.

I don’t know, he said.  The Guard had a point.  Ray helped them out occasionally and chalked it up to the war effort, but this would be asking too much.  However, right now he had other issues to deal with, like finding Trinity.  Soon, he’d be leaving and he needed to know she was happy here, or Araldo only knew what trouble she’d find.  If Ray wants money, I’ll figure something out.  He entered the mess tent, but she wasn’t there.  He grabbed a drink of water, so it wouldn’t look like he was looking for someone and then left the tent, Jackson still dogging his heals.

You better hope he wants money.  Jackson grabbed his shoulder, stopping him.  Don’t be in Ray’s debt.  You already owe Meesus.

I understand the ramifications of owing Ray...and Meesus, but I don’t have a choice.  We have to feed the troops or they won’t stay.  This is war.  We have to worry about the crisis at hand.  He smirked.  On the bright side, we could lose or I might be dead before I have to pay anyone back.  He glanced around. 

You can stop searching all over camp.  Trinity and Sue went into the forest to collect cakaonuts.

What are you talking about?  I wasn’t... 

Jackson stared at him, one eyebrow raised in disbelief. 

Is it that obvious?  He had to do better at hiding his feelings.

Yes.  At least to me.  Jackson smiled a self-deprecating grin.  Of course, I invented the look of unrequited...longing.  Although you may want to be careful around Tim, I’ve caught him watching you and Trinity when you’re together.

I’ve been trying to stay away from her. 

Really? Is that why you sit with her every evening at dinner and the two of you talk long into the night after everyone else has gone to sleep.

He needed to stop doing that.  Too many times, he’d come close to inviting her into his tent.  To talk.  Right.  Even he wasn’t fool enough to believe that.  I’ve stopped going to training.  Except for today.

That, you should’ve kept doing.

Speaking of training, why is she gathering cakaonuts when she should be instructing our troops?

You’ll have to ask to her about that, said Jackson.

I’m asking you.

Jackson shook his head.  Too bad.

I’m your commanding officer.  He couldn’t stop his lips from twitching in amusement.  They were friends, equals.

And as far as war and battles, I’ll obey, but I’m not tattling on Trinity.  Jackson grinned.  She’ll kick my ass.

You know, you’re giving me another reason to talk to her.  He really was trying to stay away from her.

Like that matters.  You seek her out every chance you get. 

I can’t help it.  We’ll be leaving soon.  And he won’t be able to see her, to know she’s safe.  She’s not going to be happy about staying here.

That’s an understatement.

I worry about her.  If we’re all gone who’ll keep her safe?

Hugh, she’s capable of taking care of herself.  She really is well trained and she’s not stupid.

But she’s reckless.  I’m pretty sure she still sneaks off on her own.  She’s going to get into trouble one day.

Jackson snorted.  One day?  She finds trouble like—

That’s my point.  He met the Guard’s eyes.  Someday her luck is going to run out and we may not be around to help her.

CHAPTER 5:  TRINITY

AS TRINITY AND SUE dragged the bags of cakaonuts into camp, Trinity’s eyes darted to Hugh’s tent.  He was outside talking to Jackson.  Figures.  Today, she’d handed over the training to Leena and had been planning on attending Hugh’s meeting, but it looked like he wasn’t having one or she’d missed it.  He was hiding something from her.  He always held the meetings when she was otherwise occupied and whenever she asked about them his answers were vague.  She’d tried getting information from Jackson, her dad and even Curtis but none of them would tell her much about what was said inside Hugh’s tent. 

She was furious about being left out.  This was as much her war as theirs and she was a valuable asset to the cause.  She didn’t understand why Hugh didn’t see that.  She’d thought he had when he’d put her in charge of training, but she was starting to think he’d manipulated her.  His gaze landed on her and he smiled as he started walking toward her.  Her breath caught.  The dark shadows of stubble covered his face and the afternoon sunlight made his black hair shine almost blue.  She wanted to feel the stubble against her cheek as she ran her fingers through his hair.

I’ll take these to the mess tent.  Sue nodded at Hugh as she headed across camp with her bags of nuts.

Hey.  Hugh took one of the bags of cakaonuts from Trinity.  You guys got a lot.

There’s still more.  We should go back.  She glanced down, unable to look at him.  It was always like this at first.  Her stomach would curl into knots and she’d forget what to say.  Then, he’d say something or smile and she’d relax and they’d talk for hours. She couldn’t imagine a day going by without seeing him.  She had no idea how she was going to stand it when he left to make the serum.

I’ll talk to Sue.  She can take a team to get more before the animals eat them.

You should leave—

We won’t take them all.  The other creatures need to eat too.  He brushed a strand of hair off her cheek.  I remember what you taught me about the forest.

She flushed as her eyes darted to his lips.  Her feet moved closer to him as if pulled by an invisible string.  His head lowered and...

Ahem.  Jackson cleared his throat.

Hugh straightened and moved back a step.

Jackson grabbed the remaining bags of cakaonuts.  I’ll take these.  His eyes darted between them.  Hugh asked me why you weren’t training.

She’d wanted to strangle Jackson for interrupting but now she wanted to stake him out for the Cold Creepers. 

Yeah.  That’s right.  Hugh took another small step away